With several people reporting via social media that Kevin Großkreutz had arrived in Köln for his pre-transfer medical check, fans joked about scouting local doner kebab shops for any sign of the world champion.

The elements surrounding Kevin Großkreutz are ideal for the swirl of transfer rumor.

perceived drop in form

long-term injury

coaching change

entering final year of contract

public fondness for potential receiving club

Because Großkreutz, somewhat infamously, has been used all over the field while at Borussia Dortmund, the notion that newly acquired Leonardo Bittencourt shares a favored position with him doesn’t deter folks from thinking it could happen. With Brecko leaving, there is no clear option for back-up at either corner defensive slot. The versatility of Großkreutz could certainly be one answer for that hole.

Additionally, whatever money comes from Nürnberg in the Brecko deal at least somewhat alters the perception that the effzeh‘s transfer business is necessarily finished due to a lack of money.

However you might talk yourself into the idea, though, Großkreutz has a message to counter.

An avid user of Instagram (@fischkreutz), Großkreutz put to rest today’s round of speculation with a message accompanying the image above.

“Hello dear Kölner and dear Borussen!

The rumor mill is grinding at the moment! I was not at a medical check!! It truly is an honor that the Kölners would be so happy. Many thanks for that! The club FC Köln currently cannot, nor do they wish to.

If I were going to have or had a new club, then I would share it with the fans first! Whatever will happen in the coming weeks, remains to be seen! As I said, you will be the first to know!

Greetings, ?”

Hence, no “fishkreutz” in Köln, at least for the time being.

But, if you want to be among the first to know and have room in your Instagram feed for one of the biggest BVB fans in the world, give big Kevin a follow. That way, you will probably see him at RheinEnergieStadion, whether it’s because he does eventually transfer or because he joins his pal Lukas Podolski in Poldi’s luxury suite to watch a game.